Denmark 0-1 Finland: Hradecky Saves Key Penalty2 min read

A Nordic derby kicked off the first game for Group B in the UEFA Euro 2020, as Denmark took on Finland at their home ground in Copenhagen.

The hosts came with the stronger side out of the two, however Finland had Teemu Pukki leading the attack. The 31-year-old started the match having been in goalscoring form with his club, Norwich City, who have been promoted to the Premier League.

Despite Pukki’s presence, Denmark was the team in-form with key players across the pitch, including their star-man Christian Eriksen.

The recent Serie A winner was creating amazing chances for the hosts including one just under the 20-minute mark that would’ve been a goal if Lukáš Hrádecky wasn’t between the sticks.

Unfortunately, around 40 minutes into the game, Eriksen collapsed on the pitch and the match had to be suspended due to a medical emergency.

Medical staff came to assess the situation after English referee Anthony Taylor immediately halted play.

Danish fans and player alike were understandably shocked at seeing their national hero down. After a few minutes, Eriksen was rushed to the hospital and UEFA had confirmed that his condition thankfully stabilised.

The game resumed at 19:30 (BST) after careful consideration and the first half ended in a stalemate.

Second Half

Denmark was still dominating in possession in the second half but failed to convert their chances.

Finland made a breakthrough in the 60^th minute after a ball from the left flank met Joel Pohjanpalo’s head in the Danish box.

Many of the home fans must’ve been frustrated as Finland managed to convert their first solid chance into the opener for Group B.

The Danes had a clear chance to score in the 72^nd after Yussuf Poulsen went down in the away box. Tottenham’s Pierre-Emile Højbjerg stepped up to take a penalty from the spot.

However, an in-form Hrádecky saved the penalty easily as the Spurs midfielder’s shot lacked power.

Four minutes were added to the initial 90 but that didn’t stop Finland getting an important win in the group stages of the Euros.

Many are hoping Christian Eriksen has a speedy recovery.

Source of Image: UEFA EURO 2020 via Twitter